In a day and age when email and text messages rule, it's easy to forget the power of a hand-written letter. And a letter of thanks, even one more than half a decade belated, can convey more than just words.

World War II veteran Stanley Krzywonos recently joined 125 fellow former soldiers on a "D-Day Honor Trip" in recognition of the 70th anniversary of D-day.

On the bus back home, the vets were surprised with handmade cards from local grade school students. Krzywonos happened to receive a beautifully-crafted card from nine-year-old Hannah Byon. Her grandfather is a Vietnam veteran and was her inspiration in creating the card and its heartfelt message.

Krzywonos was so moved by Hannah's card, he says he wants to keep it with him forever, literally.

"When I go, I want them to put it in with me, you know. I want to hold on to this. I'm proud. I feel proud. And I want to thank her very much," the veteran says with a big smile.

And thank her he did. WFMY arranged for Hannah to come to Krzywonos' house so the two could meet. Watch the video above to see this World War II veteran fight back the tears as he expresses his gratitude to Hannah.

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